Krauthammer’s example of Japan and Germany’s GNP is incongruous in that the former has a history of postwar rubble and the latter of dictatorship. Hence, their economic growth should have been slower than America’s. Additionally, his assertion that Japan and Germany’s productivity is only half as efficient as America’s, is irrelevant. How many American children and teenagers wish to have Play Station game sets or Sony audio sets? Even though America has higher productivity in some areas, some of their technological skills such as software systems or bio-genetic systems are far beyond that of Japan or Germany’s.
He also insists that was the US which took control of the water in the Persian Gulf and persuaded Iran to sue for peace in the Iran-Iraq war. He stated that “…even in the intractable Arab-Israeli dispute, all parties have their eyes turn to Washington.”. However, the America’s military actions after the 9.11 terrorist attack of WTC resulted in nations turning their eyes away from America, a nation full of egotism and burning ambition for political power.
His argument about nations suffering while emulating the free market and free politics embodied by the American system is true. However, what were the results of this American system? Korea, Malaysia and Indonesia, countries that are called the Asian tigers have succeeded in economic development through following free market principles and free politics theory. Many people have extolled their successes highly by naming it an ‘Asian Value’. However, for the last ten years, they have not shown much progress so far. Starting from Indonesia, those countries are now facing financial crises one by one.
Krauthammer’s arguments that America is not in decline are far too dogmatic to persuade readers. His arguments are overshadowed by his subjectivity. It has been proved by many politicians that Americans are now facing their first economic difficulties of the 21st century. Additionally, many people prognosticate the possibility of the second economic and political decline. To overcome this dangerous political situation, America should not exercise its power over other nations and should listen to other country’s opinions and ideas.
